Historical background with political and social scenario of Cherry Orchard by Anton Chekhov

Historical political and social background of The Cherry Orchard by Anton Chekhov

Anton Chekhov's play, "The Cherry Orchard," takes place in Russia during the early part of the 20th century. The play reflects the political and social atmosphere of Russia during this time, which was characterized by a clash between the old social order and new, progressive values.

Political Background: At the time the play was written, Russia was ruled by the Romanov dynasty, which had been in power for over 300 years. However, by the turn of the 20th century, social and political tensions were mounting, particularly among the working classes and intellectuals. The Bolshevik revolution that would eventually put an end to the Romanov dynasty had not yet occurred, but the seeds of revolution were already being sown.

Social Background: Russia was a country deeply divided along social and economic lines. The wealthy landowning class, known as the nobility, enjoyed vast estates and the trappings of wealth, while the lower classes lived in poverty and were subjected to harsh working conditions in factories and other industrial settings. The play reflects this social divide, with the wealthy landowners acquiring and losing property while the servants, who were often members of the working class, struggle to stay employed, essentially living from hand to mouth.

The play also addresses the changing attitudes towards money and property, which had traditionally been a source of status for the upper classes. It highlights the growing importance of business and commerce in shaping society and the diminishing role of inherited wealth.

Throughout the play, characters representing different social classes and ideas interact with one another, revealing the stark differences between the old and new ways of thinking. The cherry orchard, which serves as a metaphor for old tradition, is ultimately sold and cut down, representing the destruction of the old social order and the emergence of a new, more modern Russia.

In conclusion, "The Cherry Orchard" by Anton Chekhov offers a snapshot of a country in flux, as traditional ways of life and social order come under pressure from modernization and progressive ideas. The play offers a commentary on the social and political background of Russia in the early 20th century while highlighting the tensions and complexities of this transformative period in Russian history.

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